HOUSEHOLDS which are not connected to the internet are paying around £440 more a year for goods and services, new research reveals.
Five million elderly and vulnerable people have never used the internet [GETTY: PIC POSED BY MODELS]Experts say millions of people are missing out on discounts and often large savings which can be made by switching to online services.
By switching to online energy and telecoms can make an immediate saving of up to £140, according to researchers at the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR).
The study, carried out for the 'Keep Me Posted' consumer pressure campaign also found almost half of those 65 and older have never used the internet.
Campaign chairman Judith Donovan said: "Much progress has been made in ensuring that as many of us as possible can access the internet and the economic and social benefits it undoubtedly offers.
"However, the digital divide remains a big problem.
Much progress has been made in ensuring that as many of us as possible can access the internet and the economic and social benefits it undoubtedly offers
"A significant number of people have never, and probably will never, access the internet.
"Yet, this is where the impact on household budgets is the greatest."
The research found it is the poorest people who are losing out by not having access to the inernet.
The number of people using online services in the past 10 years has doubled from 46 per cent of the population to 83 per cent.
The report claims there are still seven million people who have never used the internet including five million elderly and vulnerable.
Service providers can charge less over the internet because it cuts out paperwork and manpower.
The study showed the communication industry holds the biggest benefits with up to £88 to be saved by switching online.
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